A pergola is a great addition to your backyard or patio and transforms your space into an outdoor oasis. Pergolas are great structures for gardening, dining or entertaining and provide a natural ambiance that adds elegance to any space.

But how much shade does a pergola provide?

Because pergolas are four or six-column open structures that have a partial roof created by interlocking beams that form a horizontal lattice, they are open-roof structures that don’t provide much shade. However, just because a traditional pergola offers limited shade doesn’t mean you can’t escape to a shady retreat while under one.

There are pergolas out there that do provide shade via louvers, as well as more traditional options that use canopies. The positioning of your pergola can also allow for some shade if placed strategically. Let’s look closer at each of those options.

 

Consider A Louvered Pergola

One way to ensure you have a shaded option for your pergola is going the louvered pergola route. A louvered pergola is similar with one key difference: the flexibility to create an open or fully closed roof. The roof on a louvered pergola consists of a series of louvers, or slats. The louvers move in unison, allowing you to open for ventilation or sunlight, or fully close for protection from sunlight.

When fully closed, louvered pergolas provide complete shade. Depending on the angle of the sun and where your pergola is positioned, partially closed louvers may also provide the adequate shade you’re looking for.

Unlike some other shaded options we’ll discuss below, a louvered pergola will also provide rain protection when the louvers are fully closed. So, if you have a desire to spend time under your pergola in any weather, or if you don’t want your furniture getting wet, this may be an ideal option for you.

 

 

Consider A Soft Shade Canopy

If you like the look and feel of a traditional pergola and aren’t ready to go the louvered route, there are other options for escaping the sun. One of the more popular is getting a soft shade canopy for your pergola.

Pergolas with shade covers are great because they’re able to give you the shaded protection you’re looking for while still allowing air to flow in. These easily removable canopies are often made of breathable woven fabric. This light material provides shade, and it also provides UV protection.

One note of caution is that these types of soft canopies do not provide rain protection. The breathable material is meant to be light and minimally disrupt airflow, so water does get through. The upside is you won’t have pooling water on the canopy after a rainstorm.

Select pergolas on the market come with these shade covers included, so make sure you do your research and know if the pergola you’re buying includes one.

 

Consider The Positioning of Your Pergola

If you’re not ready to or don’t want to invest in a louvered pergola or a shade cover, the positioning of your pergola within your outdoor space could also determine how much shade you get.

If shade is important, consider assembling and anchoring your pergola to the east of your home. Chances are you’ll be enjoying your pergola in the afternoon and evening more often than the morning, and those are the warmest times of the day and often when shade is desired. When the sun is in the sky to the west in the afternoon and evening, your house could provide a natural shade block for your pergola.

Alternatively, a neighbor’s house or a heavily wooded area to the west of your pergola could provide similar relief if the layout of your outdoor space doesn’t allow for your house to provide the necessary shade.

 

Backyard Discovery Has A Plethora of Shade Options For Pergolas

Backyard Discovery’s vast pergola offerings include several collections that provide shade.

The Sarasota Louvered Pergola collection is ideal if you’re looking for both sun and rain protection. This modern steel collection includes louvers that can easily be opened or closed with a louvered wand. When fully closed, water-tight with an integrated drainage system that discreetly channels water down concealed downspouts in the leg posts. The downspouts protect the post interior from potential rust or corrosion. Plus, gutter guards at the top of each post prevent debris from getting into the downspout.

If you want the look and feel of a traditional pergola but still desire that shady retreat, there are a handful of pergolas in Backyard Discovery’s arsenal that come with soft shade canopies including in the Stratford, Hawthorne, Windham, and Trenton series. These canopies allow you to bask in the sun when you want or enjoy some cooling down time.

No matter your style or preference, you’re sure to find a shaded pergola option from Backyard Discovery. All of Backyard Discovery’s pergolas are made with durable materials such as steel or cedar, ensuring your investment stays strong and lasts for years. Each pergola is PRO-TECT™ Tested and Proven to withstand up to 100 mph winds and is backed by an industry-leading Five Year Limited Warranty.

Start exploring and get ready to transform your outdoor space today.